DPWH chief on the way out?

The signs of the impending departure of Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Bayani Fernando are increasing.

DPWH Undersecretary Manuel Bonoan is reportedly being eyed as the transition head of the Department before a new Secretary takes over in a few weeks.

Sources said a memorandum may soon be issued from Malacañang appointing Bonoan, the most senior of the three undersecretaries, as acting DPWH Secretary. Reports earlier showed that Interior and Local Government Secretary Joey Lina may be tapped as Fernando’s replacement.

Fernando is the concurrent Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) chairman.

"Fernando appears to be gearing up to run again as Marikina mayor," said an informant. Thus, Fernando does not need a cabinet position if he is merely eyeing a local government position.

Government officials intending to run in the May 2004 elections are expected to resign by November.

Fernando earlier expressed his reluctance to hold two positions in government saying he is satisfied being the mere MMDA chairman. He claimed no knowledge over Lina’s rumored impending appointment.

Another DPWH official reached by The STAR, however, denied the report saying "these could be mere rumors" but did not discount its possibility.

"Maybe it is not true because up to now we still have a meeting scheduled with him (Fernando)," said the official.

The appointment of Lina is also seen as a "graceful exit" for the DILG Secretary, who was criticized for his failure to curb illegal gambling. He vowed last year that he will resign if he will not be able to stop it. — Jose Aravilla